Gaza media office: 'The occupation conducted a horrifying massacre in Beit Lahiya'

 The Israeli attack on Beit Lahiya in northern Gaza has killed at least 73 people and wounded over 100 others, according to Gaza's government media office. 

"This is a war of genocide and ethnic cleansing. The occupation has conducted a horrifying massacre in Beit Lahiya," the media office said. It added that women and children were among the casualties.

Medics in Gaza reported that Israeli air strikes targeted a multi-floor building and damaged a number of nearby houses.

The attack shook the entire western part of the town, and buildings collapsed while people were inside, Al Jazeera reported. Residents were given no warnings to leave their homes.

Many people were left trapped under the rubble, with paramedics and civil defence crew unable to immediately reach the area due to the intensity of Israeli bombardment.

Read more: Israeli attack on Beit Lahiya kills at least 73 Palestinians